Subnautica 2 Walkthrough — Early to Late-Game Progression Guide

How to Progress in Subnautica 2

There is a Linear Story Progression

Although Subnautica 2 does not follow a strict linear path, it has quests that guide your progression. Blackbox locations marked by NOAH are often in areas containing essential tech and abilities.

Unlock Abilities/Tech to Explore New Areas

Some regions require specific Adaptations to unlock, while others need new tech for easier exploration. Generally, progression comes through new discoveries.

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Early Game Priorities & Walkthrough

What is Early Game?

Early game is the introductory phase from the game’s introduction until you gain access to the Heat Tolerance Adaptation. This is when you learn the basics and get familiar with gameplay.

Early Game Progression Steps

Monitor your survival gauges at all times

1. Craft Essential Starter Tools — Survival Multitool and Scanner
2. Improve Exploration Capabilities
   • Craft Air Bladder or Air Tank
   • Craft Basic Fins & Use Dash
3. Learn to Manage Thirst & Hunger
   • Craft Water to Bring Along
   • Get the Digestion Adaptation
4. Visit Marked Blackbox Locations
5. Build Your Base
   • Craft the Habitat Builder
   • Set Up Your Base
6. Place Essential Base Facilities
7. Stock Up on Supplies
8. Build Other Farming Tech

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Mid-Game Priorities & Walkthrough

What is Mid-Game?

Mid-Game starts once you’ve unlocked the Heat Tolerance Adaptation and ends before you set off for the Alien Ruins. You become more comfortable exploring with better tech like the Tadpole.

Mid-Game Progression Steps

1. Build the Tadpole
   • Requires Moonpool & Vehicle Fabricator
   • Upgrade the Tadpole
2. Unlock New Tools & Tech
3. Get the Heat Tolerance Adaptation
4. Continue Collecting Blackboxes
5. Establish Consistent Material Locations
   • Scanner Station can be used
6. Scan Available Flora
   • Collect Plant Samples
7. Prepare to Cross the Chasm
   • Be Prepared to Face the Collector Leviathan

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The Bottom Line: Subnautica 2 doesn’t hold your hand, and that’s exactly why we’re here. The progression loop is simple: explore, find something that kills you, build the thing that stops it from killing you, go deeper. Get the Digestion Adaptation early. Build a base near the Alien Ruins before you attempt the crossing. And when NOAH marks a Blackbox location? Go there. That’s the game telling you where the good stuff is.

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Endgame Priorities & Walkthrough

What is Endgame?

Since Subnautica 2 is still in Early Access, the current endgame starts and ends within the Alien Ruins. Once you reach this area, you gain access to the current best upgrades.

Endgame Progression Steps

1. Survive Against Leviathans
   • Learn About Leviathans
2. Explore the Alien Ruins
   • Find New Tech
   • Collect New Materials
3. Build Base in Alien Ruins
   • Place Down Necessary Structures & Systems
4. Upgrade Your Tadpole
5. Upgrade Tools & Equipment
   • Modify Important Tools
   • Get Fins & Air Tank Upgrades
6. Complete the Current Story
   • Learn the Alien Language
   • Fix the Power Plant
   • Open the Observatory
7. Collect All Biomods
8. Prep for the Next Update